India to address concerns on laptop import curbs at WTO

India will be reportedly addressing concerns raised by some countries at the World Trade Organisation regarding laptop import curbs. India has however reiterated that the question of a trade dispute does not arise because the system is still not in place.  

The Directorate General of Foreign Trade said that an "import management system" would come into place to issue the required licences for laptop imports.  

India had notified import restrictions on laptops, tablets, all-in-one personal computers, ultra-small form factor computers, and servers earlier this year on Aug. 3 with immediate effect, requiring importers of these products to apply for licences from the government for future consignments.  

The move was then delayed in its implementation by three months, giving companies time to apply for it. Countries like the United States, China, South Korea and Chinese Taipei have reportedly raised concerns about India's decision to impose import restrictions on laptops and computers.

The U.S. had said that the decision is creating uncertainty for exporters and downstream users and would impact the trade of these products, including U.S. exports to India, upon implementation.  

Meanwhile, South Korea highlighted that the proposed measures by India seem inconsistent with WTO rules and could consequently create unnecessary trade barriers, the report said.  It further asked India to reconsider the implementation and provide detailed clarifications and information on this issue, including the timeline of implementation.